Aargh!
My latest technical problem just seemed to reinforce my self-doubts and negative self-talk about me and technology.
Putting my “deep technological know-how” to work, I mumble, stumble and fumble with the various buttons, keys, and cords.
Closing all the applications and rebooting still didn’t work. Turning the computer and the printer on and off several times didn’t do anything either. Trying to find the error “printer is busy” message anywhere in the printer manual information was a waste as well.
One thing I learned from this (and myriad previous experiences) was to just unplug everything and wait for a minute or two. Not that the situation changes, but that my perspective does!
It turns out that when I unplug my equipment and sit waiting for a minute or more, I unplug myself at the same time as well.
I’m thinking this “unplug and stop everything for a few minutes” might be a pretty good solution for whenever things aren’t working in life.
It’s easy to try. Whether it’s a difficult conversation, a bit of anger, or a block in our work project, giving ourselves time to breathe and get some perspective is a useful activity.
It’s an unexpected strategy because it appears passive. We’re not actively developing new strategies, arguments or viewpoints. In fact, we’re not actively doing anything.
That time restores us to our factory default settings…which for most of us folks tend to be open-hearted, creative, and hopeful. And that makes us more likely to be effective when we plug back in.
In a meeting that’s going nowhere? Take a break.
Making no headway on that project? Stand up and take a walk.
Arguing with the kids? Give ourselves a time-out.
Unplug for a minute and breathe.
This is not a strategy that requires practice and skill building.
All it takes is remembering to do it.
I love thinking that my “factory default setting” is positive, loving and creative!
Sometimes life requires our active, willful engagement. But sometimes…the smartest move is disengagement.
Have you ever used this?
How did it work for you?
1 Comment
I use this “technique” all the time with my homework! Usually when I hit a wall I realize I’ve been sitting at my desk for a solid hour or more. I get up and take a walk, or do the dishes, sometimes I just wiggle my arms and my legs to shake the dust off my mind. Works like a charm, I just have to REMEMBER TO DO IT!!
I love reading your blog, Grandma! Your consistency is inspiring and your message is always useful and thought-provoking.
Love,
Logan